A 22 year Rotary veteran and a young United Muslim Migrant Association (UMMA) Centre volunteer, were among Manningham’s leading community members honoured at the 2021 Manningham Civic Awards.

Following its cancellation in 2020, this year’s Manningham Civic Awards were announced on 29 October in a scaled-down, COVID-safe event.

Manningham Mayor Cr Andrew Conlon said the Award recipients were chosen from a committed group of nominees, all of who have helped made Manningham a stronger community.

“Manningham is such a great city because of our people and community groups who chip in and make it a great place to live,” he said.

“We’re extremely lucky we have people, organisations and community groups that are dedicated to our community and helping others.”

Nominations for five award categories were open to everyone, from organisations making a difference in communities, tireless volunteers and social leaders, to community groups building capacity and outstanding performance in sports.

Citizen of the Year – Ian Goldsmith

Known as an outstanding leader in the community, with a commitment to community service and voluntary work, Ian Goldsmith has impacted the lives of many. As Board Chairman of the Manningham Community Enterprises Ltd and President of Rotary Club of Manningham, he’s used his position to help people experiencing disadvantage, people with disabilities, older adults and young people in our community.

Young Citizen of the Year – Sulaymaan Hafeez

As well as completing Year 12 in a challenging year, Sulaymaan didn’t stop serving his community. He is Vice Captain at East Doncaster Secondary College, a member of the Youth Advisory Council at Manningham Youth Services and a volunteer at the United Muslim Migrants Association Doncaster Mosque where he ensures patrons adhere to COVID-safe requirements, assist older adults with IT access and mentors younger students.

Volunteer of the Year – Patricia Wheeler

Every fortnight for more than 30 years, Pat has played piano for residents at MannaCare during Sunday Services. Recognising her music has an impact on older people, she also plays for residents at the Roseville Retirement Village. An avid volunteer, Pat has been a foster parent to five children in the 70s and knit prostheses for Knitted Knockers Australia for women who have undergone mastectomies.

Sports Achiever of the Year – Roland Frasca

Roland ‘Rolly’ Frasca first joined Doncaster Junior Football Club (DJFC) in 2011 as a parent and coordinator of its Auskick Program. After his children grew up and found other interests, he remained as coach to young children, later joining the committee to manage registrations and became Grounds Manager. Rolly truly embodies the community spirit through his contribution to the club.

Community Achievement Award – Manningham State Emergency Service

Manningham SES has a long and proud history, providing 24 hours, seven days a week volunteer support to the community during times of storms and floods. Not only do volunteers spend endless hours learning new skills and maintaining their competencies, they also educate the wider community in preparation for natural disasters.  They are called on to provide support to Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria, Fire Rescue Victoria, Country Fire Authority and to assist council at community events.

To read more about the 2021 Manningham Civic Awards winners, visit manningham.vic.gov.au/civic-awards

We're honoured to officially rename the Manningham Civic Volunteer of the Year Award in recognition of the late Doreen Stoves AM PSM JP.

From 2022, the award will be named the Doreen Stoves Volunteer of the Year Award.

The award recognises the outstanding voluntary contribution made by an individual to the Manningham community. It highlights the sustained contribution of the quiet achievers who often work behind the scenes to build a stronger and more caring society.

"We'd like to acknowledge Doreen's significant contributions to our community. Her name brings great meaning and honour to this award. We hope to continue her legacy now and into the future with this tribute," said Cr Mayor Michelle Kleinert.

Doreen had a long association with Manningham Council. As the Chief Executive Officer of Doncare for 19 years before her retirement, she was a formidable leader in strengthening Manningham's service system.

Doreen was passionate, committed and respected by all. In addition to working with Doncare in Doncaster, she worked for the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services for 25 years, establishing strategic partnerships to benefit communities. She advocated for family, children, and social support services. She was awarded two Australian Honour Awards, a member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2013 and a Public Service Medal (PSM) in 1995.

You can nominate for the 2022 Manningham Civic Awards until Friday 19 August. 

The awards will be announced and celebrated at the annual Gala Ceremony on Wednesday, 28 September 2022.

We announced our 2022 Civic Award winners on Wednesday night. 

Close to 200 people joined us for the ceremony in the Manningham Function Centre, hosted by radio’s, Lucy Holmes.

Our Mayor, Cr Michelle Kleinert congratulated the winners and said the room was buzzing with anticipation.,

“There was amazing support for our 25 nominees this year. Announcing the winners was incredibly exciting!

It felt very special to recognise the people who continuously dedicate their time and effort, helping us become a stronger, more connected and resilient community”.

This year, we renamed the Volunteer of the Year Award in honour of the late Doreen Stoves AM PSM JP. Members of the Stoves family attended the ceremony to see Varvara Ioannou receive the award. Varvara couldn't attend the ceremony but was honoured to receive the award, saying, 

“I would like to express my gratitude to the Manningham City Council for honouring me with the prestigious Doreen Stoves Civic Award. I had the pleasure for having had brunch with the late Doreen a month before she passed away. It was such an honour to watch the whole ceremony from Greece. I had tears in my eyes and feel blessed. Thank you.”

The 2022 award winners are:

Citizen of the Year - Margaret Kelly

Margaret has dedicated over 25 years of community service and voluntary work in Warrandyte. As a committee member and President of the Warrandyte Historical Society, Margaret has had an exceptionally positive impact on the preservation of Warrandyte’s history and has been involved in various committees for sporting groups, kinder and school councils. 

Young Citizen of the Year - Stephanie Martinez

Stephanie is acknowledged for her community contributions, which include being involved in and leading key local projects, supporting vulnerable community members and participating in local committees. Stephanie exemplifies the next generation of change and continues to give back to her community.

Sports Volunteer of the Year - Vince Montuoro

Vince is acknowledged for his work in establishing and growing football opportunities for children across Manningham. His enthusiasm about using football as a vehicle to get kids active, develop better people skills and facilitate personal growth has helped kids across the community.

Doreen Stoves AM PSM JP Volunteer of the Year - Varvara Ioannou

Varvara is acknowledged as being an inspiring volunteer leader in our community, sharing her professional knowledge and experience. Varvara encourages others to volunteer their time to create an inclusive community. She is committed to creating inclusive schools, universities, workplaces, community organisations and communities. 

Community Achievement Award - CareNet Program

The CareNet program is acknowledged for providing much needed food relief to our community. Their volunteers are friendly and supportive. Carenet has overcome barriers to food accessibility, making food relief easy and available in a safe place for those in need.

For further information, visit our Civic Awards webpage. 

The search is on for our local community heroes, with nominations for this year’s Manningham Civic Awards now open.  

Manningham Mayor Cr Andrew Conlon said following its cancellation in 2020 due to COVID-19, the Awards are back for 2021.

“The Awards recognise residents who’ve made exceptional contributions to our community through volunteer, paid and unpaid work, in particular during the past year with the pandemic,” he said.

Nominations for the Civic Awards cover five categories, including:

• Citizen of the Year
• Young Citizen of the Year
• Volunteer of the Year
• Sports Achiever of the Year
• Community Achievement Award.

The Awards recognises those who have shown leadership, inspiration or dedication to a cause and contributed to the wellbeing of our community.

“Over the last 12 months, we saw how our communities banded together, helping each other during restrictions and beyond,” Cr Conlon said.

“Every day, many people volunteer in our local sporting clubs, community groups and other programs, making a significant difference to the lives of our community. It highlighted just how important connected communities are and how dedicated our local volunteers are to Manningham.

“This is our chance to say thank you and to celebrate their contribution”.

In 2019, member of the Chinese Senior Citizens Club, Hardy Shum, won the coveted Citizen of the Year award.

“When I was nominated I was so overwhelmed,” he said. “One of my greatest experiences as Citizen of the Year was showing my community that if you work hard for your community, you can achieve great things.”

All applications received for the 2020 Awards will automatically be included in this year’s nominations.

Nominations will close on Wednesday 15 September, and subject to COVID-19 restrictions, winners will be announced at an Award Night Gala Ceremony on Wednesday 20 October.

For more information and to nominate, visit manningham.vic.gov.au/civic-awards

Manningham Council announced the 2022 Civic Award winners at a ceremony on Wednesday night. 

Close to 200 people attended the Manningham Function Centre event, hosted by radio’s, Lucy Holmes.

Manningham Mayor Cr Michelle Kleinert congratulated the winners and said the room was buzzing with anticipation.,

“There was amazing support for our 25 nominees this year. Announcing the winners was incredibly exciting!

It felt very special to recognise the people who continuously dedicate their time and effort, helping us become a stronger, more connected and resilient community”.

This year, Council renamed the Volunteer of the Year Award in honour of the late Doreen Stoves AM PSM JP. Members of the Stoves family attended the ceremony to see Varvara Ioannou receive the award. Varvara could not attend the ceremony but was honoured to receive the award, saying, 

“I would like to express my gratitude to the Manningham City Council for honouring me with the prestigious Doreen Stoves Civic Award. I had the pleasure for having had brunch with the late Doreen a month before she passed away. It was such an honour to watch the whole ceremony from Greece. I had tears in my eyes and feel blessed. Thank you.”

The 2022 award winners are:

Citizen of the Year - Margaret Kelly

Margaret Kelly has dedicated over 25 years of community service and voluntary work in Warrandyte. As a committee member and President of the Warrandyte Historical Society, Margaret has had an exceptionally positive impact on the preservation of Warrandyte’s history and has been involved in various committees for sporting groups, kinder and school councils. 

Young Citizen of the Year - Stephanie Martinez

Stephanie is acknowledged for her community contributions, which include being involved in and leading key local projects, supporting vulnerable community members and participating in local committees. Stephanie exemplifies the next generation of change and continues to give back to her community.

Sports Volunteer of the Year - Vince Montuoro

Vince is acknowledged for his work in establishing and growing football opportunities for children across Manningham. His enthusiasm about using football as a vehicle to get kids active, develop better people skills and facilitate personal growth has helped kids across the community.

Doreen Stoves AM PSM JP Volunteer of the Year - Varvara Ioannou

Varvara Ioannou is acknowledged as being an inspiring volunteer leader in our community, sharing her professional knowledge and experience. Varvara encourages others to volunteer their time to create an inclusive community. She is committed to creating inclusive schools, universities, workplaces, community organisations and communities. 

Community Achievement Award - CareNet Program

The CareNet program is acknowledged for providing much needed food relief to our community. Their volunteers are friendly and supportive. Carenet has overcome barriers to food accessibility, making food relief easy and available in a safe place for those in need.

For further information, go to www.manningham.vic.gov.au/manningham-civic-awards.  

This week at the Manningham Civic Awards, Manningham celebrate individuals and community groups who are busy making a difference and contributing to our community.

Manningham Mayor Cr Andrew Conlon said it was a privilege to acknowledge so many community-minded citizens and groups.

"We are fortunate to have an active and engaged community. This year we created our civic awards to better showcase the work of our community.

"These wonderful people strengthen the fabric of Manningham and the community connectedness we enjoy every day," he said.

The 2018 Manningham Civic Award winners are:

• Citizen of the Year - Geoff Roberts
• Young Citizen of the Year - Jade L Chan
• Sport Achievement Highly Commended Award - Alf Molinaro
• Sport Achievement Award - Fiona Huber
• Volunteer of the Year - Judges Commendation Award - Kristie Chapman
• Volunteer of the Year - Teresa Clarke
• Community Achievement Highly Commended - Kids Hope Mentors
• Community Achievement Award - Women’s Friendship Group

"On behalf of our entire community I would like to thank our nominees for their efforts, you are the heart of Manningham."

"I know there are many unsung heroes going above and beyond in Manningham. Please share their amazing stories with us when nominations for next year’s Civic Awards open later this year," he said.

The Monster Community Raffle was also drawn during the celebrations. Over $24,000 was raised for community organisations, schools and sporting clubs in Manningham and over $8,000 was contributed to the Manningham Charitable Fund.

To view winners manningham.vic.gov.au/monster-community-raffle

Last night, Manningham recognised outstanding achievements and contributions to the community by 8 individuals and community groups at the Manningham Civic Awards.

Manningham Mayor Cr Paula Piccinini said the awards are in their 2nd year, and are awarded as part of Volunteers Week.  They showcase the diversity our community and exceptional commitment of individuals and organisations who give so much to others.  

“We had an overwhelming response for nominations and to see the difference so many make to our community was humbling’.

It was an honour to present these awards to our local heroes that reflect the diverse and outstanding works and achievements of our community,” she said.     

The 2019 Manningham Civic Award winners are:

• Citizen of the Year – Hardy Shum
• Young Citizen of the Year – Zoe Petropoulos
• Young Citizen of the Year Highly Commended Award – Humdaan Hafeez
• Sport Achievement Award – Alan Duffus
• Volunteer of the Year – Kathy Monley
• Volunteer of the Year – Highly Commended Award – Sue Whitten
• Community Achievement Award – Doncaster All Abilities Basketball
• Community Achievement Highly Commended – Kevin Heinze Grow

“On behalf of our entire community I would like to congratulate our award winners and thank all nominees for their hard work. Our local heroes really understand the needs of their community.”

Manningham Council is calling on the community to shine a light on a local hero and nominate them for a 2019 Manningham Civic Award.

Nominations for the Civic Awards officially opened on Saturday 1 December with five categories, including:

• Citizen of the Year
• Young Citizen of the Year
• Volunteer of the Year
• Sports Achiever of the Year
• Community Achievement Award.

Manningham Mayor, Cr Paula Piccinini, said the awards provide the perfect platform to recognise those who have made an outstanding contribution to our local community.

“Every day, there are people volunteering in our local sporting clubs, community groups and other programs, who make a huge difference to the lives of others. This is our chance to say thank you and to celebrate them”.

Last year’s Sports Achiever of the Year, Fiona Huber, was nominated by Templestowe Cricket Club where she has played for over 20 years and is heavily involved in volunteering.

“When I was nominated I was so overwhelmed. One of my greatest experiences as Sports Achiever of the Year was being given the opportunity to speak at the opening of the Mullum Mullum stadium. As a sportsperson that moment really meant a lot to me,” Fiona said.

Ms Huber said if someone knows a local hero, she would encourage them to make a nomination.
“It’s great to be recognised for the work you do and it makes all those early mornings, sacrifices and things like standing in the rain even more worth it,” she said.

For more information or to nominate, visit manningham.vic.gov.au/civicawards. Nominations close Tuesday 30 April 2019 at 4.00pm.

The search is on for our community heroes as nominations for the 2018 Manningham Civic Awards officially open on Friday, 1 December.  

Manningham Council is encouraging the community to nominate the people they think deserve one of the prestigious awards, celebrating their achievements in the community.  

Manningham Mayor Cr Andrew Conlon said the Awards had been reviewed and expanded to reflect the diverse and outstanding works and achievements of the community. 

“There are now five Awards up for grabs, including the overall Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year,” he said. 

A further three awards will be presented to community members and groups who have excelled in particular areas and have gone beyond their contribution to our community. These include Volunteer of the Year, Sports Person of the Year and the Community Achievement Award (for organisations). 

Cr Conlon said the Awards recognised those who had demonstrated exceptional commitment to the community, both through their own careers, volunteer work or organisations. 

“There are many fantastic people who work hard and are the heart of our community,” he said. 

“I’m really proud of our community awards. They provide the perfect opportunity for people to be thanked and properly recognised.

“I very much look forward to hearing the stories and reasons behind the nominations and urge everyone to get in touch with Council and let us know who they think deserves recognition in next year’s Manningham Civic Awards.” 

Nomination is open to anyone who lives or works in Manningham. 

All nominees will be invited to a gala event, where the winners will be announced during National Volunteer Week on Wednesday, 23 May. 

Winners are determined by a special panel comprising of council officers and community representatives. 

For more information on eligibility, criteria and the nomination form, visit www.manningham.vic.gov.au/civicawards. All nominations must be submitted by close of business Wednesday, 28 March 2018.

Photograph and interview opportunities are available. 

Manningham Council is calling on the community to shine a light on a local hero and nominate them for a Manningham Civic Awards 2020.

Nominations for the Civic Awards are now open with five categories:

• Citizen of the Year
• Young Citizen of the Year
• Volunteer of the Year
• Sports Achiever of the Year
• Community Achievement Award.

Manningham Mayor, Cr Paul McLeish, said the awards are a fantastic opportunity to recognise those who have made an outstanding contribution to our local community.

“Every day, there are people volunteering in our local sporting clubs, community groups and other programs, who make a huge difference to the lives of others. This is our chance to say thank you and to celebrate them,” Cr McLeish said.

Last year’s Citizen of the Year, Hardy Shum was nominated by a member of the Chinese Senior Citizens Club where he has been involved for over 20 years volunteering his time.

“When I was nominated I was so overwhelmed. One of my greatest experiences as Citizen of the Year was showing my community that if you work hard for your community, you can achieve great things,” Mr Shum said.

Mr Shum said if someone knows a local hero, he would encourage them to make a nomination.

“It’s great to be recognised for the work you do and it makes all those sacrifices and long hours even more worth it,” he said.

For more information or to nominate, visit manningham.vic.gov.au/civic-awards

Nominations close on Friday 6 April 2020 at 4.00pm.

This week is National Volunteer Week, Australia’s largest celebration of volunteers, and did you know that we have one of the largest volunteer communities in Victoria!

To celebrate, between Monday 15 and Sunday 21 May, we will honour our dedicated volunteers and the vital role they have in our community. 

Our Mayor, Cr Deirdre Diamante said volunteers are the backbone of the community, dedicating their time and skills to provide a range of services and improve the lives of residents of all ages.

“Whether they’re volunteering their time on our advisory committees, as L2P driver mentors, in community service support roles, sporting clubs or the many areas in between, we are so grateful for the incredible contribution of our volunteers,” Cr Diamante said. “I can’t wait to meet 100 of our volunteers when we host our annual volunteer reception on Wednesday night (17 May),” the Mayor added.

Reception guests will hear from 2022 Citizen of the Year, Margaret Kelly. Margaret has dedicated over 25 years to community service and voluntary work in Warrandyte.

National Volunteer Week is a great time to consider volunteering. Also honoured at last year’s Civic Awards, Doreen Stoves Volunteer of the Year, Varvara Ioannou said for her, volunteering had become a way of life.

“It has given me the opportunity to meet new friends and contribute to something bigger and better in creating a better world.”

Cr Diamante thanked all the inspirational winners of last year’s Manningham Civic Awards and encouraged the community to nominate for this year’s awards via our Civic Awards website before 10 July.

“The awards recognise residents who have made exceptional contributions to our community through volunteering and paid work.” 

Speaking of exceptional contributions, our dedicated advisory group committee members volunteer their time to provide advice to Council on the needs of the community. Manningham has six advisory groups: 

• The Disability Advisory Committee
• Gender Equality and LGBTQIA+ Advisory Committee
• Health and Wellbeing Advisory Committee
• Manningham Youth Advisory Committee
• Multicultural Advisory Committee
• Recreation and Sport Advisory Committee. 

“Advisory committees strengthen the voice of people, build their capacity and support the community to be accessible and inclusive for all Manningham residents,” Cr Diamante said.

“At our April meeting we endorsed the appointment of our three newest Disability Advisory Committee members. On National Volunteer Week I’d like to thank you, and all our advisory committee members, from the newest to the longstanding, for volunteering your time to provide valuable advice from your lived experience.”

Another valued program that our Council delivers with the support of volunteers is the L2P Driver Mentor program. The program is funded by the Victorian Department of Transport, Manningham Council and Whitehorse Council. 

It supports young learner drivers who do not have access to a supervising driver and/or vehicle at home. Volunteers mentor young drivers so that they can achieve the hours required to obtain their licence.

Greg Longden, L2P mentor driver said, “There’s plenty of support programs for you as a mentor and it’s a great contribution and experience”. Greg also felt that “patience, a desire to give free time of your own, a desire to contribute to a young person and their future” is important if considering on becoming a L2P volunteer.

To learn more about these volunteering programs or the 2023 Manningham Civic Awards visit: 

• Manningham Civic Awards
• L2P program
• Committees and working groups